AUSTIN, TX-September 17, 2001-Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP) announced this morning that they will proceed as scheduled with their Annual Convention & Tradeshow slated for Phoenix, Ariz., October 17-20, 2001.

"Our association has a duty to our members, our industry, the country of our headquarters and the world to get back to business," Executive Vice President and CEO Frank Wolfe said. "Many of our members use our convention to maintain their certifications and for continued education that is not available anywhere else. HFTP has a responsibility to those who are planning to attend to produce the best event possible under the circumstances. Therefore, the Annual Convention & Tradeshow will go on as scheduled."

Wendy Zurstadt, HFTP vice president and Annual Convention chair described the HFTP Annual Convention as, "a forum for learning, an opportunity to strengthen existing networks and expand professional development." Zurstadt added, "Anyone in the financial or technology sectors of the hospitality industry will find an education program that will provide useful information that works as hard as they do every day. The tradeshow is targeted to give attendees a chance to exchange quality dialogue with vendors and industry peers."

HFTP recognizes that some of our members and supporters might be uncomfortable traveling so soon after such a tragic event. To accommodate these individuals, HFTP will offer a full refund to all members who have already registered for the convention. All cancellations should be sent to the international office by Friday, September 21. After that date, our refund policy will revert back to the regular policy.

"We are currently working with our speakers and service providers in Phoenix to provide an educational and fun convention to those who attend our meeting - whether we have 200attendees or 600!" Wolfe stated.

In order to make travel easier on our attendees, HFTP is making some changes. To accommodate the airlines' request of all passengers to limit baggage, we have changed our dress code for the convention to casual.

HFTP President Don Walton said, "In looking at this, we decided that dress shorts and a polo shirt would be much easier to pack and take up less room. Phoenix temperatures will be very pleasant during this time of the year. However, our Friday night event will remain black-tie optional and arrangements have been made to have tuxedo rentals available at the hotel."

HFTP is also planning to expand the hours for our cybernet café. This should allow attendees more chances to check their e-mail without having to bring laptops with them.

For more information, please contact the HFTP Annual Convention department at 800-646 4387 or 1-512-249-5333.

Based in Austin, Texas, HFTP is the professional association for financial and IT personnel working in hotels, resorts, clubs, casinos, restaurants, and other hospitality-related businesses. The association provides continuing education and networking opportunities to more than 4,300 members around the world. HFTP also administers the examination and awards the certification for the Certified Hospitality Accountant Executive (CHAE) and the Certified Hospitality Technology Professional (CHTP) designations. HFTP was founded in 1952 as the National Association of Hospitality Accountants.

HFTP® and HITEC® are registered service marks of the Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals.

Wendi Williams
(512) 249-5333
HFTP